By Horn Africa News
Israel is reportedly in discussions with several countries, including Indonesia, Uganda, South Sudan, Libya, and Somalia’s self-declared Republic of Somaliland, to explore the resettlement of Palestinians displaced from the Gaza Strip, according to a report by Israel’s Channel 12.
The report states that Somaliland has expressed openness to accepting Palestinians who voluntarily leave Gaza, though no formal agreement has been reached. The breakaway region, which seeks international recognition of its independence from Somalia, reportedly views participation in such a plan as a potential step toward diplomatic legitimacy.
Indonesia, however, has firmly rejected any relocation of displaced Palestinians to its territory, stressing its role will remain purely humanitarian. In April 2025, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced his country’s willingness to treat up to 1,000 wounded Palestinians and orphans from Gaza, with the condition that all would return home once recovered. Last week, Jakarta confirmed plans to reopen a medical facility on Galang Island to treat up to 2,000 Gazans, who would be allowed to stay with family during recovery, before being sent back to Gaza upon discharge.
Reports have also linked Israel to outreach efforts toward South Sudan with a similar resettlement proposal. However, Juba dismissed the claims as “false and unfounded,” saying they do not reflect official policy. South Sudanese officials stressed that hosting displaced Palestinians would pose risks to national security and stability.
The majority of Gaza’s population remains wary of such resettlement proposals, fearing they could amount to permanent displacement and pave the way for Israeli control over the territory. While some Palestinians are willing to leave temporarily due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis, many insist they will not abandon Gaza permanently.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly voiced support for the mass displacement of Gazans, stating that Israel is “coordinating with several countries” to accept them. “Those who claim to care about the Palestinian people should open their doors to them,” he said.
International reaction to the proposals has been deeply divided, with human rights groups warning that any forced displacement could constitute a breach of international law.
